the fbi, the justice department and others who studied it said it made no difference. so if we're looking at things that are effective, let's talk about them. but first, let's talk about protecting our kids. >> reporter: the full court press from the nra comes as some democrats, who have long supported the nra, are showing an openness to change. democratic senator mark warner of virginia who has an "a" rating from the nra, suggested that the gun lobbying group is out of touch. >> to me simply saying existing gun laws are enough the status quo is acceptable just didn't pass my gut check as a father. >> reporter: most republican lawmakers, though, remain wary of any new gun l krocontrol measures such as an assault weapons ban. >> people where i live i've been christmas shopping all weekend, have come up to me and said please don't let them take my guns away. >> reporter: retiring senator kay bailey hutchinson are one of a few from her party saying they ought to look at gun control measures. >> i think we ought to be looking at where the real danger is like those large cl